Indigenous financial workshops

Brittany Pruden

Métis Cree

I’m a proud Métis woman reclaiming my heritage. I was disconnected from my ancestors and culture, and I’ve made it my journey and life purpose to reconnect to my heritage and traditional teachings. My mother is Métis Cree from St. Laurent, Manitoba.

Christie Sparklingeyes

Saddle Lake Cree Nation

I’m from Saddle Lake Cree Nation in Treat 6 territory in Alberta. I understand that every decision from the past and present impacts future generations.

My goal is to ensure we all have access to financial literacy to create wealth and prosperity for the next seven generations. My favourite role in life is being an Auntie to my niece and nephew.

Christopher Williams

Squamish Nation

Kwesamcane is the name gifted to me by my family, and one that I carry proudly. I was raised on the Squamish Nation reserve of X̱wemelch'stn, the Capilano Reserve in West Vancouver. My father is the Squamish Nation Hereditary Chief, Bill Williams, and my mother is Bertha Joseph.

I’m passionate about teaching people about my heritage and how it fits into today’s culture.

Ellie Lane

Metis

I’m a proud Metis woman from Lebret, Saskatchewan. Living in British Columbia, I've always felt disconnected from my culture.

Every day, I learn something new about my ancestors and apply it to my teachings. It’s important to teach financial literacy in a colonization-aware environment, where elders, youth, and everyone in between can learn the proper skills and habits to be financially successful and normalize financial literacy.

Frank Smith

ʼNa̱mǥis First Nation

“Gilakas’la nugwam Kixtlala’nakwala”

That was “hello” and an introduction in my traditional Chief’s name from the Kwikwasutinuxw. It’s Frank Smith in your world.

I do my best to help our children learn the values of our traditions and keep our culture going. As a front-line worker, I love working with people, and I view everyday as an opportunity to learn new things.

Jeanine Johnny

Gwa'Sala-'Nakwaxda'xw

"Gilakas’la nugwam Iki’la’o’gwa." My father is Chief Sixolas and my mother is a third generation Canadian. As my father’s eldest daughter, it's my “responsibility” to take care of my entire family, and it’s something that brings me great joy!

My goal is to help my people become more financially literate and assist them in becoming more financially independent and secure in all aspects. Every day brings more knowledge!

Jen Turner

Pimicikamak Cree Nation

I am a Swampy Cree registered with Pimicikamak Cree Nation, and raised in Cormorant, Manitoba. My traditional name is White Thunder Rock Woman. I am a proud Kookum to two grandsons.

I recognize the role institutions played in colonization of Indigenous people. My goal is to empower Indigenous people to build on their financial skills and develop a positive relationship with money based on their values.

Karen Gray

Cree

I recently discovered I have Cree ancestry from Manitoba. I’m passionate about learning my Indigenous roots and helping Indigenous entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses with Vancity’s array of products and services.

Madison Mussell

Skwah First Nation

I come from the Skwah First Nation in Chilliwack on my father’s side and I’m of Dutch heritage on my mother’s side.

I recognize how financial institutions played a role in the colonization of Indigenous people. Many folks remain intimidated by it, particularly those who lack financial literacy.

Building skills with our communities sets a solid foundation for our success. I’m a proud dog-mom of two pups, Bill and Ted.

Rose Archie

Tsq’escemc

I’m from Tsq’escemc in Canim Lake, BC which is also known as “The People of Broken Rock”.

I’m passionate about building wealth through an Indigenous lens and am excited to talk about it. I want to help support Indigenous organizations and businesses, as they help build healthy Indigenous communities. I also want to be able to recognize the value of Indigenous knowledge keepers, as they are priceless.

Whitley Point

Sto:lo Nation

My goal is to inspire people to become the best versions of themselves. My passion for fitness and wellness led me to facilitate groups for over five years.

As an active member of the Indigenous Employee Resource Group, I strive to create a supportive and diverse workplace.

My goal to teach financial literacy to my home community of the Sto:lo Nation, and be an example for future Indigenous leaders!

Larry Railton

Metis

I’m of Metis of Cree and Welch heritage. My work focuses on inclusion and acceptance of who we are as a people, while supporting individual successes along the way. Understanding wealth in a conceptual way can helps guide personal successes.

Veronica Folkers

Haida

My traditional Haida name is Koonjaad. I'm from the Haida Gwaii Nation, and I currently and gratefully reside on the unceded territories of the Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh peoples. I'm glad to provide elder support as requested.